By Michell Ndaga
United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala has declared Thursday a “public holiday,” urging Kenyans to turn out in large numbers to welcome former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Speaking during a live interview on NTV Kenya on Wednesday night, Malala said Gachagua’s return marks a significant political moment within the ruling coalition. “Tomorrow is a public holiday. The king is coming tomorrow,” he told viewers, signaling a grand reception plan by UDA loyalists aligned to Gachagua.
Gachagua, who has been out of the country for several weeks, is expected to land in Nairobi on Thursday, where his allies have promised a hero’s welcome. The move comes amid rising tensions within Kenya Kwanza, with visible cracks emerging between President William Ruto and his former deputy.
During the NTV appearance, Malala also weighed in on Ruto’s bribery allegations made at a recent parliamentary group meeting in Karen, where the President accused some MPs of taking bribes. Malala dismissed the remarks as politically charged and lacking credibility.
“The President has no moral authority to speak about corruption when individuals close to him are themselves facing allegations. Such claims should be left to independent bodies like the EACC,” Malala stated.
His comments underscore the growing rift within the ruling coalition and raise questions about the unity of UDA as it prepares for upcoming political battles. Analysts say Thursday’s reception could test Gachagua’s influence and further expose divisions at the heart of government.
